Why Mykonos Ranked Among Europe’s Best Holiday Destinations

“Best holiday destinations in Europe often share certain qualities: sunshine, luxury stays, world-class beaches, and unforgettable travel experiences.”

Mykonos brings all of these elements together, which is why it was voted Europe’s Best Island in 2018 by Condé Nast Traveler readers. Blending iconic Cycladic architecture, glamorous nightlife, high-end hospitality, and exceptional villa rentals, the island continues to attract jet-setters, honeymooners, and lifestyle travellers from every corner of the world. From luxury resorts and fine dining to private beaches and tailored VIP services, Mykonos remains one of the top Mediterranean escapes for elevated travel experiences.

The world-leading travel publication Condé Nast asked 429,000 of its readers to rank the 30 best islands worldwide (outside the US), dividing them into regions including Europe, Asia, the South Pacific, and North America. Mykonos secured the top spot in Europe, followed by Crete and Paros, reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit destination for discerning travellers.

Known for attracting jet setters and honeymooners, Mykonos has long been celebrated for its lively nightlife, luxurious resorts, premium concierge services, and world-class Luxury Villa Rentals in Mykonos. Its cosmopolitan energy, paired with authentic island charm, creates an atmosphere that is both glamorous and effortlessly relaxed.

Recent analyses from Skyscanner, based on millions of flight searches over the past three years, combined with qualitative research by The Future Laboratory, also identify Mykonos as one of the top 10 global travel hotspots. The island’s international appeal continues to grow, maintaining its position among the world’s most iconic cosmopolitan destinations.

Part of the island’s success lies in its excellent tourism infrastructure. Mykonos offers everything from luxury Greek villa rentals and five-star hotels to upscale restaurants, designer shopping, chic lounges, and beach activities. Whether you seek a simple bed-and-breakfast or an exclusive private holiday villa in Greece, the island delivers diversity and quality at every level. Prestigious hotels such as Cavo Tagoo further elevate the hospitality scene.

For travellers drawn to the party lifestyle, Mykonos remains unmatched. Legendary venues like Cavo Paradiso—a clifftop club hosting world-renowned DJs such as David Guetta, David Morales, and Satoshi Tomiie—continue to define the island’s nightlife. But if the thought of starting your evening at 3 a.m. feels daunting, Mykonos offers a more indulgent alternative: leisurely, rosé-filled lunches that stretch late into the evening.

A quintessential example is Nammos on Psarou Beach, often compared to St. Tropez’s Le Club 55. Dining here can become an experience in itself—last summer, a widely shared photo of a Lebanese group’s lunch bill revealed a staggering €59,000, most of which went to premium champagne and spirits.

Wherever you choose to dine, the island’s atmosphere remains unmistakable. Music slowly intensifies, conversations blend with sea breezes, and before you realise it, someone is dancing barefoot on a table while navigating magnums of Cristal. In recent years, Scorpios on Paraga Beach has emerged as a strong contender to Nammos, offering a bohemian, Bedouin-inspired aesthetic, organic cuisine, and a sunset ritual that has become a signature Mykonos experience.